Coulthard to be Red Bull's reserve

David Coulthard will be called up for a surprise Formula 1 comeback if either of Red Bull Racing's current drivers are unable to race in the first few events of the season.

Red Bull Racing had hoped to sign up Brendon Hartley as its reserve driver already, but the New Zealander has not yet been granted the mandatory superlicence that he needs.

Although the team is hopeful that it can sort out Hartley's paperwork in the next few weeks, it has opted to instead use Coulthard as its reserve driver for the first few flyaway races.

Coulthard retired from F1 racing at the end of last season but has retained an advisory role with Red Bull Racing, alongside his commentary commitments with the BBC.